Three Natural Wonders That Are Positively Glowing
Curious adventure-seekers who are always on the hunt for awe-inspiring places, will be chomping at the bit to see these three glowing spots in person. From glowworm caves to ice caves, and a glittering island by night, these seemingly supernatural locales are travel destinations in their own right for their sheer brilliance.
1. GLOWWORM CAVES IN WAITOMO, NEW ZEALAND
As if lit up by glow-in-the-dark shooting stars, the Glowworm Caves in Waitomo, New Zealand are a sight that one has to see with one’s own eyes to believe. Within these caves, discovered by a local Māori Chief over 125 years ago, a species of glowworms that can be found exclusively in New Zealand, creates a sky of living lights.
Situated in the southern Waikato region of New Zealand’s north island and about two hours south of Auckland, this particular cave attracts people from all over the world. There are organized tours that include a boat ride under the brilliant natural spectacle, and even accommodations to stay the night nearby. But be forewarned – not only is the Waitomo Caves Hotel famous for its unique regional Victorian style architecture, it is also supposedly the most haunted hotel in New Zealand.
The Glowworm Caves in Waitomo, New Zealand are a sight that one has to see with one’s own eyes to believe. (Guy Cowdry / Shutterstock.com)
2. SEA OF STARS ON VAADHOO ISLAND IN THE MALDIVES
Swimming in the sea by night may be just another adventure for the intrepid traveler, but how about upping the ante a bit in a sea that is entirely illuminated? The Sea of Stars on Vaadhoo Island in the Maldives is famous for a rare natural phenomena – glowing blue tides that scatter towards the shore come nightfall.
Thanks to bioluminescence, a natural chemical reaction of marine microbes called phytoplankton, the Sea of Stars lights up the calm waters, creating neon blue lights, and a surreal effect that looks as if it was digitally-enhanced. The otherworldly vision is best seen on moonless nights. And for those who are particularly daring, a scuba diving expedition will have you up close and personal with the bright lights of the phytoplankton like no other.
3. MENDENHALL ICE CAVES OF JUNEAU IN ALASKA
Imagine being transported to a larger-than-life natural landscape lit up as if you are in an underwater aquarium. This is the scene of the Mendenhall Ice Caves in Juneau, Alaska. Located in the Mendenhall Glacier, some 12 miles from downtown Juneau, these ice caves radiate an all-encompassing blue glow. Getting there is an adventure in and of itself, as they can only be reached by kayak and a hike over the 13-mile-ling glacier (which includes 360 degree views of expansive, untouched natural beauty and wildlife).
Once in the caves, visitors will be awestruck by the surrounding slick, blue glacial ice – reminiscent of a Hollywood setting from a supernatural sci-fi flick – and the fact that they can actually witness every stage of the water cycle all at once.
